I have had both, both can be very good, the problem, in my opinion, comes in because to make a very nice direct drive, and there are several, the motor expense goes up, without a good direct drive motor you really have some noise and speed issues, however with a very good motor you have an exceptional turntable. It takes in a lot less cost to put a synchronous motor and belt pulley system in than to go to the expense of a direct driven motor and control system.

From a vintage stand point it is easier for us to keep a belt driven system functioning due to the availabilty of correct/suitable replacement parts.

Neither is better or worse, there may be a cost difference to get to the level you desire.

Just my thoughts.

Jim

I have only had a direct drive unit, so I really dont know, would love to do some comparison listening sometime.

elroy

Your Denon is an example of a very good direct drive.

Jim

Our boy Elroy definitely hit on it:
Real-time comparisons.
I get a kick out of people who are entirely provincial and parochial
and whatever other "P" words you choose -- pissy, proud and pigheaded
come to mind -- based on their chauvinistic attitudes about THEIR
preferred gear. I have my personal issues with getting defensive
at times, and still have to resist the impulse. And I'm not saying
brand loyalty can't be a good thing. However, one of the
most refreshing statements I hear goes something like this:
"I have always been a Pioneer* guy, but when I heard that Sansui*,
I was really impressed, and now listen to both of them about equally."
*Substitute Yamaha, Marantz, or whatever name you choose.

Enthusiasts can obviously make a scorched earth campaign on any
topic, but TTs and speakers seem to generate the most rancor. Then again,
I decided to quit a speaker forum (and yes, the brand starts with a "P"),
based on the excoriating I got for SUGGESTING someone could
experiment with nontraditional wire as speaker wire. For a while,
it even soured me on the speakers, tho the James K's do sound purty good.